Jeremiah 42:2
And said unto Jeremiah the prophet, Let, we beseech thee, our supplication be accepted before thee, and pray for us unto the LORD thy God, even for all this remnant; (for we are left but a few of many, as thine eyes do behold us:)
Jeremiah 42:2 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the people are speaking to Jeremiah, recognizing him as a prophet who has a close relationship with the Lord. They are asking Jeremiah to intercede on their behalf and pray to the Lord on their behalf. The people acknowledge their small number compared to their former population and recognize that they are a remnant of what once was. By asking Jeremiah to pray for them, they are seeking his help in turning to the Lord for guidance, protection, and blessings. This verse highlights the importance of seeking the prayers of a righteous person, like Jeremiah, who is close to God. It also emphasizes the belief in the power of prayer and the importance of seeking help from others in times of need. The people's humility in recognizing their small numbers and their dependence on God's mercy and grace is a powerful reminder of our own reliance on prayer and faith.
Theological Overview
Jeremiah 42:2 reveals a point of desperation among the remnant of Israel who had survived the destruction of their city by the Babylonians. In their plea to Jeremiah, they acknowledge the power of prayer and intercession, recognizing the importance of seeking God's favor through the prayers of a righteous prophet. This verse underscores the belief in the efficacy of intercessory prayer and the role of prophets as mediators between humans and God. The people's request for Jeremiah to pray on their behalf reflects a deep sense of humility and dependence on God's mercy. Additionally, the phrase "for we are left but a few of many" suggests a recognition of their own smallness and vulnerability in the face of divine judgment. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of humility, faith, and seeking God's will through prayer in times of trial and uncertainty.
Jeremiah 42:2 in other translations
American Standard Version
and said unto Jeremiah the prophet, Let, we pray thee, our supplication be presented before thee, and pray for us unto Jehovah thy God, even for all this remnant; for we are left but a few of many, as thine eyes do behold us:
World English Bible
and said to Jeremiah the prophet, Please let our supplication be presented before you, and pray for us to Yahweh your God, even for all this remnant; for we are left but a few of many, as your eyes do see us:
Douay-Rheims
And they said to Jeremiah the prophet: Let our supplication fall before thee: and pray thou for us to the Lord thy God for all this remnant, for we are left but a few of many, as thy eyes do behold us.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And saide vnto Ieremiah the Prophete, Heare our prayer, we beseeche thee, and pray for vs vnto the Lord thy God, euen for all this remnant (for we are left, but a fewe of many, as thine eyes doe beholde)